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Carbon Monoxide Poisoning |
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Carbon monoxide (CO) is a colorless, odorless gas, that
is produced whenever any fuel such as gas, oil,
kerosene, wood, or charcoal is burned. Hundreds of
people die accidentally every year from CO poisoning
caused by high levels of CO due to malfunctioning
or improperly used fuel-burning appliances. Even
more die from CO produced by idling cars. Fetuses,
infants, elderly people, and people with anemia or with
a history of heart or respiratory disease can be
especially susceptible. |
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CO Poisoning
Symptoms |
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It is important to be educated and to
know and recognize the signs and symptoms of carbon
monoxide poisoning. Symptoms are as follows: |
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Low
CO Levels |
Moderate to High
CO Levels |
- Mild headaches
- Shortness of Breathe
- Mild nausea
- May have long term effects on your
health
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- Severe headaches
- Dizziness
- Confusion
- Nausea
- Faintness
- Possible death
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Many people often confuse these
symptoms with the flu, food poisoning, or other
illnesses, which is the cause of CO poisoning going
unrecognized. If you have any of these symptoms
and suspect CO poisoning: |
- Get fresh air IMMEDIATELY - open windows, doors,
turn off combustion appliances, leave the house
- Call 911
- Get to an Emergency Room
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Carbon Monoxide
Poisoning Prevention |
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Follow these DO's and DON'Ts |
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DO's |
DON'Ts |
- If purchasing a new fuel burning
appliance, have it installed properly by
a trained professional
- Have your fuel burning appliances
inspected by a trained professional on
an annual basis
- Read and follow all written
instructions with your appliance
- Contact the U.S. Consumer Product
Safety Commission with any questions or
concerns regarding a product
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- Idle a vehicle in a garage, even
with door open
- Use a gas oven to heat your home
- Use charcoal or gas grill indoors
- Sleep in an unventilated room with a
gas or kerosene space heater
- Use any gasoline powered engines in
enclosed areas (mowers, snow blowers,
chainsaws, etc.)
- DON'T IGNORE YOUR SYMPTOMS
especially if you are not the only one
in your household having similar
symptoms. It can cost you or a
loved one's life!
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More On-line Information |
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If you have any questions or would like more information
on Carbon Monoxide Poisoning, you may contact
us at (315) 253-1560 or email us at
cchealth@dfa.state.ny.us. |
